My Binoculars: What has Remi Tinubu got to do with Akara, Kulikuli, Boli, Dodo and Ekpa

By: Bodunrin Kayode

There are three types of community enterprises that can never fail in Nigeria if residents know how to utilize them for life. Theses are food vending, washing of clothes and hair cutting businesses. These have stood the tests of time over the years because of its relevance in the daily lives of residents in the country. Services rendered around these local enterprises have generated a lot of resources in the non real sector making it a shining avenue for tax hunters to begin to look around to generate revenue. Nobody does food business like “Akara” production in Nigeria and regrets regardless of his or her source of fuel to produce the food stuffs in question.

It is with this background that I don’t see anything offensive in the suggestion of the first lady of Nigeria Senator Remi Tinubu urging young idle people to take Akara production which is a very common food stuff to the next level. Akara frying has always hidden in the non real sector of the economy but it can be taken to the next level for even export if food scientists can research further on how to expand its lifespan without too much preservatives.

For as long as there is life in the body of a young person, he or she can never become a liability to his family, if he takes to food business early in life. And when I talk of Nigerian food I am talking about varieties which includes heavy African cuisine like “foofoo” or light snacks such as “Akara” which can be found in any corner of West Africa and even Nigeria. Akara is made from African beans which makes it the cream of all snacks in the region because of its high protein contents.

In my opinion akara has always been a life saving snack delicacy which started from South West Nigeria and has now spread to all the crannies of the country. It is both a physical and a spiritual food in most parts of the country that modern genzee’s have turned it into several flavors inserting all manner of spices into the processed beans to bring about exciting results. Some people wrongly contextualize it as a cake but I don’t think it qualifies to be a cake other than the light snack it has been since the beginning of time. Akara is fried and not baked like cakes. It is also an African delicacy as such we don’t need to give it a foreign label. It will always remain our light snack. Mark you Akara business is a very honorable business like any other snack enjoyed by both the genzee’s and the rest of us. It has existed long before Remi Tinubu was born and will outlive her if Jesus doesn’t return before the end of contemporary times.

I have watched the online space sadly as a lot of confused genzees make uninformed derogatory comments about Akara business as if it is beneath them. They make it look as if Akara production cannot be taken to the next level by transforming it from a petty trading business to a small scale business. And when it becomes a small scale business, it can be used to feed hundreds of people in form of breakfast in a food bank. Madam Tinubu obviously knows what she is doing as a home management strategist. This is because Akara business will become a major support in her national community food bank program meant to feed the poorest of the poor. This is a program meant to combat child malnutrition and food insecurity in Nigeria. Akara also called kosai in some parts of the north of Nigeria targets vulnerable households, children under six years and pregnant women to at least have a semi balanced diet in the country every morning. With Akara of five hundred naira and corn “pap”, hundreds of families that go hungry in the morning utilizing the 011 system will now have breakfast of less than 1000 naira daily per child. So why look down on such a wonderful delicacy when it can bring money into the hands of many young girls who believe in using what they have to get what they want in the name of “runs” or organized office prostitution for the highest bidder.

But out of experience in living in this world, I know that there is nothing wrong with that kind of enterprise because a lot of people were raised in their homes by food vendors and they are proud to say it anywhere they go that it was due to the Akara, aadun or dundun snack their mum sold that made them to acquire Western education today. Hundreds are standing on their two legs today because they took Akara or even Boli and cooked beans to the next level. There is nothing demeaning in her suggestions that even the jobless can take to cooking. Afterwards Hilda Baci who has a world record in cooking did not make it big in just a day. She started at a very low level and proceeded to the level she found herself now. People now consult her to cook for them as a consultant.

Young people can always make it big from starting Akara business in a small way. And this to me is why the recent suggestion that the poorest of the poor should resolve to mini income generating ventures like Akara production is never an absurd suggestion. Only sick minds will find something wrong in this by my opinion.

My Binoculars: What has Remi Tinubu got to do with Akara, Kulikuli, Boli, Dodo and Ekpa

Kashim Shettima: The Imperative of Agricultural Revitalization and the Case for the Niger Delta’s Agrarian Future

By: Dr. James Bwala

The Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, has declared open the Niger Delta Agricultural Development and Investment Summit, co-convened by his office and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). This event marks a decisive step toward rekindling the agricultural heritage of the Niger Delta, anchored by the launch of the $500 million Niger Delta Agricultural Investment Fund. 

Kashim Shettima’s eloquent remarks as they reverberated through the crowd pointed out that while nations rely on a variety of resources, their endurance hinges on their capacity to feed themselves. His assertion that agriculture serves as both the foundation of civilization and the foremost guarantor of political stability forms a compelling argument for an urgent and strategic investment in this sector.

The call for agricultural revitalization in the Niger Delta, emphasizing its critical role in national stability, economic diversification, and sustainable development, speaks volumes of the impact of the Tinubu and Kashim Shettima administrations in this sector. The VP’s message can better be appreciated through the lens of history and economic identity. Prior to the discovery of oil, Nigeria’s economy was fundamentally agrarian. The fertile soils of regions like the Niger Delta were the backbone of local livelihoods and a vital source of revenue. Agriculture provided employment for the majority and supplied food both for domestic consumption and export. Yet, decades of oil dominance have shifted national focus and investment away from agriculture to the detriment of the sector and overall economic resilience.

This shift has had profound consequences. Dependency on oil exports has rendered Nigeria vulnerable to volatile global oil prices and external shocks, leading to economic instability. Adding to this is the neglect of agriculture. This has exacerbated rural poverty, especially in the Niger Delta regions, where environmental degradation and limited economic diversification have compounded socio-economic challenges. The vice president’s emphasis on reinvigorating agriculture is therefore not only a nod to history but also an urgent strategy to reclaim sustainability and inclusive prosperity.

One of the most persuasive points made by Vice President Shettima is the intrinsic link between agriculture and political stability. Agriculture provides food security, which is foundational to societal peace. When a nation struggles to feed its population, social unrest, economic disparity, and political volatility often follow. In contrast, countries that maintain a robust agricultural base tend to enjoy greater internal peace and cohesion because their citizens’ basic needs Countries with a strong agricultural base tend to experience greater internal peace and cohesion, as they meet their citizens’ basic needs..

In the context of the Niger Delta, a region that has experienced significant unrest and militancy largely due to economic marginalization and environmental degradation, leveraging agriculture can act as a transformative stabilizing force. By creating jobs, improving incomes, and enhancing food self-sufficiency, agricultural development can reduce desperation and conflict drivers. It offers a tangible pathway for empowerment and reconciliation, fostering a positive cycle of peace and progress.

Shettima pointed out that Nigeria’s over-reliance on oil is widely recognized as a central challenge to long-term economic sustainability. The global energy transition and fluctuating oil markets make diversification imperative. Agriculture, with its extensive value chains spanning production, processing, marketing, and export, presents a promising avenue for economic diversification.

The $500 million Niger Delta Agricultural Investment Fund represents a bold commitment to capitalize on the region’s natural endowments. Strategic investment in modern farming techniques, infrastructure, agribusiness, and market access will unlock vast opportunities. It will stimulate rural economies, expand the industrial base, and create resilience against external shocks. Moreover, integrating agriculture with technology and innovation can position Nigeria as a competitive player in global agricultural markets.

The Niger Delta has suffered ecological harm from decades of oil exploration, including pollution and land degradation. These environmental issues have compromised agricultural productivity and public health. Consequently, a renewed agricultural focus must also embrace environmental restoration and climate adaptation strategies.

Investing in sustainable farming methods, soil rehabilitation, and water management will restore the land’s fertility and mitigate adverse environmental impacts. Furthermore, agriculture can play a vital role in climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. Thus, the agricultural revitalization agenda aligns with Nigeria’s broader commitments to environmental stewardship and sustainable development goals.

For the vision articulated by Vice President Shettima to materialize, coordinated action and steadfast commitment from all stakeholders are indispensable. The government must provide enabling policies, facilitate access to finance, improve rural infrastructure, and support farmer education and research. Equally, private sector participation and community engagement will be critical in ensuring the fund translates into meaningful ground-level outcomes.

Public-private partnerships can accelerate technology transfer and market integration, while local communities’ involvement ensures culturally sensitive and inclusive development practices. Transparency and accountability in fund management will safeguard the initiative’s efficacy and public trust.

The Niger Delta Agricultural Development and Investment Summit, and the historic launch of the $500 million Agricultural Investment Fund, represent a moment in Nigeria’s quest for sustainable development. Vice President Kashim Shettima’s insightful declaration highlights the unassailable importance of agriculture as the bedrock of civilization, political stability, and economic resilience. For a nation whose foundations were rooted in agrarian prosperity before oil, the time to rekindle that legacy is now.

The Niger Delta, endowed with rich soils and a hardworking populace, can lead Nigeria’s agricultural renaissance. Through deliberate investment, environmental restoration, and strategic partnerships, the region can emerge stronger, more stable, and more prosperous. Embracing agriculture not as a fallback but as a frontline driver of national progress is not merely an option—it is an imperative for the enduring well-being of Nigeria and its people. The Niger Delta Agricultural Development and Investment Summit symbolizes hope and determination, signaling that Nigeria will no longer take its agricultural promise for granted but will harness it fully to feed its future.

James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Kashim Shettima: The Imperative of Agricultural Revitalization and the Case for the Niger Delta’s Agrarian Future

IFAD: When Kyari speaks of President Tinubu’s continued support for agriculture and food security in Nigeria

By: Dr. James Bwala

At the 49th session of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Nigeria’s Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, delivered a powerful closing statement that underscored the crucial role of agriculture in Nigeria’s socioeconomic landscape. His remarks not only highlighted the ongoing support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu but also made a persuasive case for the importance of an unwavering commitment to food security and agricultural transformation. Indeed, Kyari’s endorsement of President Tinubu’s agricultural policies reflects a broader vision for Nigeria’s development and why such support is vital for both national prosperity and global food security.

Senator Kyari opened his statement with a note of gratitude for being elected as the chairperson of IFAD, an organization that plays a pivotal role in enhancing food security and agricultural development across the globe. This acknowledgment was not just a formality—it set the tone for what would follow.  While expressing appreciation for President Tinubu’s steadfast dedication to agriculture, Kyari positioned the Nigerian leadership as progressive and forward-thinking in a time when the world grapples with pressing issues of food scarcity, climate change, and economic instability.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/confidence-hope-for-nigerias-agriculture-president-tinubus-message-to-sen-kyari/

Sen. Kyari said the importance of food security cannot be overstated. Noting that it is the bedrock of societal stability and economic growth. Indeed, in Nigeria, a country that relies heavily on agriculture, it is imperative that government leaders prioritize initiatives that bolster food production and ensure that every citizen has access to nutritious food. Senator Kyari emphasized that President Tinubu’s policies are oriented towards achieving this goal, which speaks volumes about the administration’s commitment to addressing the needs of the population. When leaders demonstrate a resolute focus on agricultural reforms, they ignite hope and inspire confidence among the citizens, particularly in rural areas where livelihoods largely depend on farming.

Sen. Kyari articulated a vision for agricultural transformation that extends beyond mere rhetoric; it encompasses actionable frameworks and policies aimed at improving productivity, supporting farmers, and building sustainable supply chains. The senator’s acknowledgment of rural communities—specifically mentioning both women and men—reflects an understanding of the integral role that gender equity plays in agricultural development. While he includes both demographics in his remarks, Kyari reinforces the notion that empowering women farmers and entrepreneurs is essential for achieving comprehensive food security. Indeed, studies consistently show that when women have equal access to resources, education, and decision-making processes in agriculture, communities thrive.

It is worth noting that the transformative efforts in agriculture are not solely a domestic issue but resonate on a global scale. As nations confront interconnected challenges like food insecurity, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, cooperative engagement becomes paramount. Senator Kyari’s emphasis on Nigeria’s constructive participation in global food security governance illustrates the need for countries to collaborate and share best practices to create resilient agricultural systems. Kyari noted that in a world where food supplies can be disrupted by unpredictable climate patterns and trade conflicts, having strong national policies in place can support international stability.

He states that President Tinubu’s administration is entering a phase marked by increased investment in agricultural infrastructure, research and development, and farmer support programs. His statement serves to reinforce this narrative and catalyze further discussions around resource allocation for agriculture. For instance, improving irrigation systems, providing better access to credit, and enhancing extension services are critical steps that can transform the sector. These initiatives not only secure food sources but also stimulate economic growth through job creation and increased agricultural exports.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/confidence-hope-for-nigerias-agriculture-president-tinubus-message-to-sen-kyari/

Sen. Kyari’s leadership at the IFAD sends a message of Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with other countries in tackling shared challenges. As global food demands rise, the ability to contribute to and shape international dialogues on agriculture becomes vital. Nigeria stands at a crucial intersection, where its actions can influence broader trends in agricultural policy and food security efforts worldwide. The senator’s humility, expressed in acknowledging his responsibilities toward rural communities, hints at a collaborative spirit that prioritizes dialogue and partnership over isolationism.

In discussing the support from President Tinubu, Kyari highlighted that such endorsement is not just symbolic; it translates into real changes on the ground. The current administration recognizes that modernizing agriculture requires holistic approaches that integrate technology, sustainability, and community engagement. This includes investing in agricultural research institutions, promoting innovative farming techniques, and harnessing technology to enhance yield and efficiency.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/confidence-hope-for-nigerias-agriculture-president-tinubus-message-to-sen-kyari/

As the global community looks toward sustainable development goals, Nigeria’s agricultural agenda must align with these aspirations. The zero hunger goal, for example, emphasizes that food should be available, accessible, and nutritious for all individuals. Kyari’s reiteration of President Tinubu’s support for agriculture thus positions Nigeria as a proactive partner in the global mission to eradicate hunger. This vision must be backed by strategic planning and effective implementation to ensure that the promises made resonate in the lives of Nigerians, especially those in the most vulnerable communities.

The minister’s remarks signify an essential reorientation towards climate-smart agriculture. As the effects of climate change become increasingly evident, traditional farming practices may no longer suffice. Therefore, adopting strategies that promote resilience—such as diversifying crops, utilizing drought-resistant seeds, and implementing sustainable land management practices—is crucial. Sen. Kyari’s acceptance of the chairmanship at IFAD reflects an understanding of these complexities, establishing a platform where Nigeria can advocate for adaptive measures suited to its unique environment.

Indeed, Senator Abubakar Kyari’s address at the 49th session of IFAD effectively conveyed the significance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s support for agricultural initiatives in Nigeria. This backing is not merely political; it represents a strategic thrust towards addressing food security, supporting rural livelihoods, and participating actively in global conversations about agriculture. 

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/confidence-hope-for-nigerias-agriculture-president-tinubus-message-to-sen-kyari/

As Nigeria navigates its path toward agricultural transformation, the leadership’s commitment paves the way for sustainable development that uplifts communities, empowers individuals, and ultimately contributes to a more secure and stable global food system. With collaborative efforts at the national and international levels, Nigeria has the potential to emerge as a key player in shaping the future of agriculture and food security, fostering a safer and more equitable world for all.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja. 

IFAD: When Kyari speaks of President Tinubu’s continued support for agriculture and food security in Nigeria